'Tuesday's win over the Pens was a positive indicator for a lot of reasons. It was one of the most complete games they've played all season. The perfect balance between lightning quick transition hockey, and outstanding team defense. The kind of defense that wins games in April, May, and June.'

'“Forty goals in your second year and to be [plus-42] at the same time, that’s a pretty special place,” Ruff said of Vanek, who missed the final 13 minutes with back spasms. “Thomas is OK. . . . I wouldn’t anticipate him missing any time.”'

'“The support [the Sabres] receive on teen Web sites is simply amazing,” says Ed Kilgore, sports director at WGRZ-TV. “Young people share their concern over the latest injury, or share their outrage at what they think is an injustice or their happiness over a great win or performance.” Kilgore, whose teenage daughter listens to Sabres games regularly from her dorm at the University of Missouri, adds that young fans have definitely affected the atmosphere this season. “Young people have certainly added some excitement at the games themselves, and the players also notice the support of young people around town and in public.”'

‘”This store was something the town could appreciate,” he said. “They needed something local and trendy providing students in Okemos and East Lansing an opportunity to get a taste of what is usually reserved for Chicago.”‘